Evolution Owner ’s Manual & Setup Guide
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN CAUTION: TO REDUCE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
Evolution User Guide - Contents 7.0 Basic Settings for the X1 Active Crossover 1.0 Intro 8.0 X1 Bass Manager/ Active Crossover 8.1 Design 8.2 Placement 1.2 Description By Model 8.3 Explanation of Features 1.3 Identifying Your System 8.4 System Status Indicators 8.5 Fine Tuning 1.1 Introduction, About This Owner's Manual 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 Getting Organized 2.1 Unpacking 2.2 Parts List 9.0 A1 Monaural Amplifier 9.1 Design Speaker Placement 9.2 Placement 3.
1.1 Introduction, About this Owner's Manual 1.2 Description by Model Congratulations on your purchase of an Evolution System. We believe Evolution to be the most flexible, high performance loudspeaker collection available.
becomes the Evolution T5 tower. It employs the Evolution 12” aluminum cone woofer. The B5 cabinets are mirror imaged to allow for proper woofer orientation. B6 - The B6 subwoofer bass module mates with the M6 to form the T6 tower system. Designed for larger rooms, the mirror imaged B6 modules each contain two 12” aluminum cone woofers. Pedestals P5 - The pedestal matched to the M5. Allows the monitor to be used free standing with separate subwoofers or placed as a rear channel speaker.
1.3 Identifying Your System T5 Towers To the right is a chart by model, indicating the various components and accessory kits included with your purchase of either the T5/T6 tower or U1/U2 subwoofer system. The M5/M6 and P5/P6 are packaged individually with their required hardware and accessories.
2.0 Getting Organized. CAUTION: Some of the Evolution product is heavy. We recommend you enlist help in unpacking, assembling and moving the larger speaker components. Note: If possible, we recommend that you store the shipping cartons and packing material in case the system needs to be moved in the future. open flaps The cartons for all tower speaker components and assembly kits are color coded.
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3.0 Speaker Placement Now is a good time to finalize your plans for speaker placement. This section outlines the important issues to consider in configuring your system for optimum performance. The M5 and M6 monitors are designed to perform almost identically whether placed horizontally or vertically.
3.1 Two Channel Stereo Subwoofer Center Channel The diagram below illustrates the desired monitor and subwoofer placement for two channel (stereo) listening. If you are not using an Evolution tower or pedestal and are orienting the monitors vertically, try to place the M5 or M6 so the tweeters are at or near ear level. Front Left = Front Right = = Subwoofer D Front Left Front Right = Surround Left 5.1 = Surround Right 1.5 D 3.2 5.
3.3 Enhanced Digital Surround Formats Subwoofer Center Channel Different surround formats use different numbers of surround speakers. 5.1 systems use two surround speakers, 6.1 systems use three and 7.1 systems use four. Some AV receivers and separate Surround Processors are equipped with 6.1 or 7.1 surround formats. 6.1 refers to the Dolby Digital Surround EX ™ or DTS Surround ES ™ standard. The diagrams below illustrate the suggested positions for 6.1 and 7.1 systems.
3.4 Center Channel 3.5 Subwoofers The M5 and M6 monitors can be placed in a home entertainment center or directly on top of a TV as shown below. Remember, for proper center channel sound dispersion, the Monitor should be placed horizontally. Subwoofers produce low frequencies that have long wavelengths. These wavelengths are similar to the dimensions of the room, so the sound energy strongly interacts with the room boundaries.
Evolution freestanding subwoofers offer tremendous flexibility in placement. The following suggestions illustrate a few of the possibilities available to you. If you have a unique placement requirement or intend to use multiple subwoofer systems, consult your authorized NHT dealer or call our Customer Service Hotline at 1-800NHT-9993 for advice.
4.0 System Assembly This section covers the assembly required for specific Evolution product configurations. The operations are simple and easy to accomplish quickly. 4.1 Supplies and tools screwdriver. Gently pull the Terminal Plate away from the cabinet and rotate it 90 degrees so that the Boundary Switch is at the top. Reinstall the screws in the pilot holes as shown. Make sure the screws are snug, but be careful not to over tighten them.
Step 2: NHT Third Foot for Center Channel Use The M5 and M6 cartons include a “Third Foot”, a support that stabilizes the monitor when it is mounted on a television. If the top of the television is shallower than the Monitor is deep, the rear of the Monitor will not be fully supported. The Third Foot will provide the necessary support in this case. The Third Foot can also be used to aim the Monitor down towards the listening area if the television is significantly above eye level.
Step5: Attaching Monitor Grilles The M5 and M6 are designed to sound the best when the grilles are used (they may sound slightly bright if played without the grilles). To install them, line up the four pins on the back of the grille with the four rubber cups located in the corners of the Monitor’s front baffle. Firmly press all four corners of the grille until the pins seat against the rubber cups. Note: The M5 and M6 grilles are intentionally curved.
4.3 T5 and T6 Tower Assembly Depending on which model you purchased, you will now need the parts contained in either the K5 or K6 assembly kit. Note: If you intend to use spikes with the stabilizers, do not install them at this time. The towers are difficult to move once the spikes are in place. Spike installation is covered in Step 9.
Step 3: Harness Attaching the Monitor Connection The Monitor Connection Harness connects the Monitor’s speaker terminals to the terminal cup on top of the subwoofer module. This terminal cup is internally wired to the uppermost of the two terminal cups at the bottom rear of the subwoofer module. Remove the two gold-plated screws from the terminal cup on the top of the B5 or B6 with the #2 screwdriver. Insert the ring terminal ends of the cable onto the screws and fasten them into the terminal cup.
Step 6: Bass Module Orientation Step 7: Mounting a Monitor to the Bass Module At this point you need to decide in which orientation to place the subwoofers. There are two options, woofers facing inwards or outwards as shown in the illustration. Place the monitor on the buttress as shown. The front of the monitor should be resting on the round rubber feet. Line up the threaded holes in the back of the monitor with the holes in the buttress.
Step 8: Connecting the Monitor Connection Harness to the Monitor Loosen the nuts on the binding post terminals enough to allow the spade terminals on the Harness to fit under them. Make sure you match wire colors for proper polarity, (red to red, black to black). The cable should lay flat against the back of the monitor. Tighten the terminal nuts using the NHT wrench. Step 9: Install spikes (optional) Spikes couple the speaker to the floor, improving the performance of the system.
4.4 Assembling Monitors On Pedestals Step 3: Install Metal Mounting Plate Step 1: Install Aluminum Stabilizer Bars Begin by attaching the metal mounting plate to the pedestal base with two of the small (10-24) screws and the #2 Phillips screwdriver. Note that the notch in the metal plate should be facing downwards. Do not tighten them all the way until the monitor is in position. Carefully turn the P5 or P6 bass module upside down on a soft surface, being careful not to scratch the paint.
Step 4: Install Wire Channel Assembly The wire channel assembly for the P5 and P6 pedestals neatly routes the speaker wire down the back of the pedestal. It consists of two plastic U shaped brackets, one plastic channel and four 6-3/4 screws. ends of the wire channel. These recesses should face each other when the channel is installed. There are small pilot holes in the rear of the pedestal to accept the 6-3/4 bracket screws.
screw the metal spikes into the bottom of the aluminum stabilizer bars. Tighten the locking nuts by hand. Move to the other side and repeat the procedure. Be aware that wood or tile floors can be damaged by the spike’s sharp tip. Four small metal cups are included with the pedestal to fit under each spike and protect the floor. Once the spikes have been mounted to the stabilizer bar, slip a cup under each spike as you gently lower the tower to the floor.
5.0 Wiring Your Speakers Before beginning to wire your system, we suggest you review the following guidelines and wiring diagrams to find the Evolution system(s) you have purchased. Tools Required: NHT Wrench (included) Wire strippers Tape measure Speaker Wire (10 - 14 gauge) Component Interconnect Cables 5.1 General Guides to Wire Layout has a marking along one or both conductors to help you make the correct connections.
5.5 Wiring for Monaural Bass 5.6 System Wiring Diagrams The B5 bass modules and the dual W2 subwoofer cabinets require one additional wiring step. The speaker wire coming from the B5 or W2 cabinets must be connected in parallel at the A1 subwoofer amplifier. The Dual Subwoofer Adapter has been supplied with the A1 amplifier for this purpose (see illustration).
M5 / M6 Wiring Diagram A1 M5 / M6 0 - 1 +-
U1 Wiring Diagram W1 Cabinet - + A1 + From X1
U2 Wiring Diagram W2 Cabinet - W2 Cabinet - + A1 + Use Banana Adapter From X1 +
T6 Wiring Diagram T6 Tower Left To M6 Sub - + -- + T6 Tower Right To M6 Sub - + - + A1 Left Amp From X1 From X1 A1 Right Amp AV Receiver or Amplifier - + Speaker Output Left - + Speaker Output Right
6.0 Connecting Evolution Electronics to Your System. There are a number of methods by which you can connect the X1 Active Crossover and A1 Amplifier to the rest of your system. The method you choose will be determined largely by the surround components in your system. This becomes particularly important in the management of bass frequencies. The Evolution electronics were designed with flexibility and compatibility in mind.
ting will prevent low bass frequencies from reaching the Monitors. The removal of the low bass will make integration of the Monitors with your Evolution subwoofer easier and has the additional benefit of increasing the Monitor’s dynamic range and power handling capability. Method 2 This is the connection method to use if your AV Receiver has a pre-amp out/main in section. This connection method is preferred over Method 1.
Method 3 Use this connection method if you have a separate Surround Processor and Amplifier(s). Connect the front Left and Right pre-amp outputs from your Surround Processor to the Left and Right inputs on the X1. Connect the Left and Right Hi Pass outputs on the X1 to inputs of the amplifier that is driving the front Left and front Right speakers. Using a single cable, connect the Subwoofer/LFE output from the Surround Processor to the LFE input on the X1.
6.2 Power Connections 7.0 Basic Settings for the X1 Active Crossover The X1 crossover receives power via the LL-1 power supply. The following diagrams will provide starting points for each control feature on the X1. The diagrams are organized by Evolution model. Begin with these basic settings and then move to Section 8 which describes each X1 control function in detail and provides advice for fine tuning the X1 to your listening room.
Low Pass Phase 80 55 110 65 140 180 50 -3 90 0 +3 -6 +6 Max Min Degrees HZ In L Out R LFE Hi Pass Out LFE In Max Min dB Not used in Method #1 U1 LFE Gain 0 75 30 0 Boundary EQ Master Gain One W1 = Mono Two W1 = Stereo Mono Stereo Gain Sub Out High Pass Filter 0 dB 10 dB 110Hz High Pass Out L 50Hz 80Hz High Pass Out R M5 or M6 Not used in Method #1 Low Pass Phase 80 55 65 110 140 180 50 -3 90 0 +3 -6 +6 Max Min Degrees HZ LFE Gain 0 75 30 0
Low Pass Phase 80 55 110 65 0 140 180 50 -3 75 30 90 0 LFE Gain 0 +3 -6 Max Min Degrees HZ Boundary EQ Master Gain +6 Min dB Max T6 In L Out R LFE LFE In Hi Pass Out Mono Stereo Gain Sub Out 10 dB High Pass Filter 0 dB 110Hz 80Hz 50Hz High Pass Out L High Pass Out R Not used in Method #1
8.0 8.1 X1 Active Crossover Design The NHT X1 active crossover is designed to provide convenient front-panel adjustment of the controls necessary to integrate the Evolution subwoofers with Evolution Monitors or other satellites. It also provides unbalanced RCA and differential balanced XLR inputs and outputs for connection with all types of receivers or separate audio components.
gered internally or externally. On the rear panel of the X1 is a 3-position switch that determines the trigger mode: 1) On; the X1 is always on. 2) Audio; the X1 will automatically turn on when it detects an audio signal and turn off after 20 minutes with no signal. 3) 12V Ext; the X1 can be remotely turned on or off when it detects a DC control signal from another component in your system. The external trigger will accept 5 - 24 volt (DC) signals.
High Pass Filter Switch (Rear Panel) - Connection Method 2 and 3 Only Note: If you are using Connection Method #1, the X1 High Pass Filter is not in the circuit path. Your monitors will reproduce the frequency range selected by your AV Receiver. The High Pass Filter determines the range of frequencies that the main speakers ("satellites") will reproduce. For example, a high pass setting of 80Hz means that the main speakers receive a signal containing only frequencies above 80Hz.
system. However, if you want to experiment or are using main speakers other than Evolution Monitors, use the following procedure: Begin by setting the phase knob at 0°, alternating the switch position between 0° and 180°. From the listening position, choose the switch position that yields the most bass output and leave the switch there. Then use the knob to fine-tune the phase setting. Slowly twist the knob, listening for the point at which the bass at the listening position is the loudest.
8.4 System Status Indicators (Front Panel) 8.5 Fine Tuning Chart The chart below was developed to assist you in the further fine tuning of your subwoofer or tower system. Should you be unable to achieve satisfactory performance from your Evolution subwoofer system using the fine-tuning chart, contact your authorized NHT dealer or call our Customer Hotline at 1-800-NHT-9993 (6489993). Located on the right hand side of the front panel are two LEDs.
9.0 A1 Monaural Amplifier 9.1 Design The A1 is a full range (20Hz - 20kHz) audio power amplifier. It provides RCA and XLR inputs for connection with all types of receivers or separate audio components. The A1 is a single channel or monaural amplifier and can be used with Evolution subwoofer and tower products or to power individual Evolution monitors. The A1 is a Class G design, which operates at lower temperatures than other amplifier classes and is typically more efficient.
9.5 A1 Courtesy Lights The A1 amplifier is equipped with courtesy lights to illuminate the controls of the X1. This feature is controlled by a 3-position switch for HI, LO and OFF that can be accessed from the bottom of the amplifier just behind the center of the front panel. The A1 courtesy lights are set in the HI position at the factory. 9.4 Power/Standby Mode The main power switch for the A1 is located on the rear panel and does not normally need to be used.
9.6 System Status Indicators Located on the right hand side of the front panel are three LEDs. They are used to indicate the status of the A1 amplifier. P - Power LED (green) - indicates the A1 amplifier is on and in a ready condition. S - Standby LED (amber) - indicates the A1 amplifier is in "standby" mode. F - Fault/Protection LED (red) - indicates the A1 amplifier is in a shutdown condition. To replace the fuse: 1. Turn the power off. 2. UNPLUG the power cord. 3.
10.0 Maintaining your system Your NHT Evolution speakers and electronics require minimal maintenance under normal use. The cabinet may be cleaned using a soft cloth. There is usually no need to use fluids such as cleaners or wax to clean the surface of the speakers. The durable lacquer finish is designed for minimal maintenance. To clean the grille, first remove it from the speaker, then brush lightly with a soft brush or use a vacuum on its lowest setting. Do not attempt to clean the actual drivers.
11.0 Evolution Technology 11.1 Monitor Technology NHT chose the word Evolution to describe our new products for two reasons. Evolution represents our belief that loudspeaker design must evolve to meet the requirements of multi-channel, digital media both technologically and ergonomically. Secondly, it represents the evolution of the fundamental technologies unique to NHT over our 15-year history.
C) The internal midrange chamber features nonparallel internal surfaces that randomize standing waves, eliminating comb-filtering and improving clarity and detail. The chamber is also sized to the midrange driver so that it is acoustically small. This further reduces the possibility of standing waves. Evolution incorporates a "virtual" adaptation of F.I.G. Rather than an angled cabinet, we increase the energy at the listening position using the crossover.
When oriented horizontally, the null is directed at the ceiling or floor (depending on tweeter position) improving mid-range detail. 11.3 Boundary Switch A loudspeaker’s mid-bass response is very dependant on its room placement. For example, if a speaker is tuned for placement away from walls and is then placed on a bookshelf, the reinforcement of mid-bass frequencies will make the speaker sound somewhat “thick”.
11.5 Orientation Independent Dispersion The Evolution monitors are optimized for use in either a horizontal or vertical orientation. This is achieved by means of the relative placement, size and crossover frequencies of the drivers. The very small separation between the midrange and tweeter drivers allows dispersion that is very wide and well controlled.
12.0 Glossary of Terms Active: Uses electrical power. Amplifier: An electronic device that increases the current and/or voltage of a signal, providing power to the loudspeakers (i.e. power amplifier, integrated amplifier, receiver). Bass: The range of audio frequencies below 160Hz, characterized by low pitch. Crossover: An electronic circuit that divides an audio signal into different frequency ranges. Distortion: Any deviation from the original signal.
in decibels. Sub Out: An line level output for connection to a subwoofer or subwoofer signal processor. Subwoofer: A driver designed to operate over the low bass portion of the audio range. Also refers to a system consisting of a woofer and its enclosure, which are physically separate from the upper range loudspeakers. Surround Speakers: Speakers located in the side or rear for surround channel effects. Treble: The upper part of the frequency spectrum, consisting of frequencies above about 1300Hz.
13.0 Trouble Shooting Problem Unit fails to illuminate when the power is connected. What To Do 1) Check to see if your AC outlet has power. 2) X1 protection fuse may be blown and needs to be replaced. Contact your NHT dealer for assistance. 3) A1 protection fuse may be blown and needs to be replaced. See section 10.6 changing the fuse. Unit has no sound output 1) Verify that the ‘P’ (Green) LED is illuminated.
14.0 Specifications X1 Bass Management / Active Crossover A1 Amplifier Frequency response: 20Hz - 140Hz +/-3dB through L/R input (continuously variable) Frequency response: 10Hz - 65KHz +/-3.0 dB 20Hz - 20KHz +/- 0.5 dB Distortion: <0.01% 20Hz-1KHz < 0.075% 10Hz - 20Khz 20 - 220Hz +/-3dB through LFE input (fixed) 50,80,110Hz-100KHz +/-3dB Distortion: < 0.01% subwoofer output @ 100Hz, 1V < 0.
M5 Monitor B5 System type 3-way, Acoustic Suspension Woofer 5.25” laminated cone Midrange 3” paper cone Tweeter 1” aluminum dome Magnetic Shielding Impedance (Minimum) Impedance (Nominal) Yes 3.
W1 Subwoofer System type Acoustic Suspension Dual Opposing Woofer Subwoofer Woofer (2) 12” aluminum cone P5 Pedestal System type Dimensions (HxWxD) Midrange Weight Tweeter Enclosure Material: Magnetic Shielding Impedance (Minimum) Impedance (Nominal) Stand For M5 Monitor 25” x 7.75” x 11.75” 16 lbs. .75” MDF with backer No 4.5Ω 6Ω P6 Pedestal Recommended Power 250 watts Power Peak 500 watts System type Stand For M6 Monitor 250 watts Dimensions (HxWxD) 27.1” x 8.25” x 14.
